Simply downloading a course is not enough – you need to study it effectively. GM Smirnov himself provides study instructions for most of his courses. Here is a proven approach based on his recommendations:
This is the foundational flagship course of the Remote Chess Academy. It introduces the correct thinking process that grandmasters use during a game. The course covers: How to find the best move in complex positions. The rules of high-quality calculation. Overcoming psychological barriers during tournament play. 2. The Grandmaster's Positional Understanding
Smirnov’s courses differ from traditional chess books by focusing on: ALL Chess Courses by GM Igor Smirnov - TheChessWorld
Tactics win games, but strategy sets up those tactics. This course demystifies deep positional play. Gm Igor Smirnov Chess Courses Extra Quality Download
Your chess journey deserves the real thing.
For more information on available courses and to start your training, visit the official Remote Chess Academy website.
One reviewer described Smirnov's approach as "more practical" compared to other teachers, noting that he explains concepts cleanly and accessibly. "He touched on systems of thinking process... and called them 'long winded'". Simply downloading a course is not enough –
GM is a Ukrainian chess Grandmaster and renowned coach who founded the Remote Chess Academy (RCA) . After retiring from professional play with a peak FIDE rating of 2505, he transitioned into teaching, focusing on the psychological and strategic foundations of the game. The "Extra Quality" Context
Instead of memorizing hundreds of moves, you learn the underlying positional rules and plans.
Module 2 — Opening Principles to Win the Middle Game (6 videos) Focus: typical pawn structures, transition plans, common traps. Example: “The Anti-Slav Plan” — annotated PGN of a model game + 3 exercises where you must choose the plan (attack on kingside vs queenside). It introduces the correct thinking process that grandmasters
Instead of presenting long variations of computer-analyzed lines, Smirnov emphasizes fundamental principles. His curriculum centers on:
: Unauthorized downloads often miss critical components of the course, such as the practical database files (PGN format), exercises, or supplementary text guides.
Today, GM Igor Smirnov is the founder of the , a company that has helped thousands of students worldwide improve their chess results. He has developed numerous chess video lessons, articles, webinars, and comprehensive training courses, including famous titles like "The Grandmaster's Secrets," "The Grandmaster's Positional Understanding," and "Calculate Till Mate".